In the latest episode of endless self promotion from the competing HD format camps comes the Blu-ray Disc Association’s latest market statistics, which claim it’s format is establishing itself in Europe more rapidly than expected.
The BDA announced that Blu-ray disc sales across Europe are continuing to move ahead of rival HD-DVD – apparently, Blu-ray is outselling HD-DVD by four to one in the UK.
Earlier this year, some 14 brands showcased Blu-ray players at the IFA exhibition in Berlin with a number of manufacturers also announcing plans to introduce Blu-ray recorders in the near future.
In response, the content industry is seeking to launch more new titles and more and more independent European distributors are backing Blu-ray.
“According to market analyst, GfK, the gap between Blu-ray and HD DVD players is closing despite the earlier introduction of the HD DVD format,” said Frank
Simonis, Chairman, Blu-ray Disc Association European Promotions Committee.
“This is following the trend in the USA where BD has already overtaken HD DVD despite their US$ 299 price tag. Clearly, consumers are voting with their wallets."
Findings like these should always be atken with a pinch of salt and expect the HD-DVD camp to respond with its own take on how the format war is going.
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